Integration of Information Technologies for Smart and Sustainable Management of Personal Protective Equipment Warehouses

The management of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) warehouses in sectors such as mining is crucial to ensuring safety and operational efficiency, although challenges persist in developing countries such as Ecuador due to a lack of automation and manual processes. This study aimed to analyze the impact of digitization through technologies such as barcode readers and inventory software on PPE logistics management in an Ecuadorian mining company. A mixed approach was used, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, with a descriptive cross-sectional design, collecting data through interviews, observation, and documentary records, and evaluating inventory accuracy, traceability, and automation before and after the intervention. The results showed an increase in inventory accuracy from 82% to 98.7% and traceability improved to nearly 95%, in addition to a 40% reduction in delivery and replenishment times and 15% operational savings (This percentage corresponds mainly to the reduction in costs associated with labor and logistics resources, not including the initial costs of implementing the software). Acceptance of the new system was high, with ratings above 4.5 for ease of use and error reduction. The main conclusion is that digitization in PPE warehouse management significantly optimizes logistics efficiency, improves traceability, and reduces occupational risks, demonstrating its viability and benefits in the Ecuadorian context. These findings support technological modernization in similar sectors and lay the groundwork for future research that delves deeper into indicators such as service quality, staff satisfaction, and budget efficiency, thereby contributing to strengthening occupational safety and operational sustainability in critical industries. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.